Vinylekloridi

Vinylekloridi, also known as vinyl chloride or chloroethene (chemical formula C2H3Cl), is a colorless, flammable gas at room temperature. It is the principal monomer used to produce polyvinyl chloride (PVC), one of the most widely manufactured plastics.

Properties and handling

Vinyl chloride has a boiling point around -13°C and, due to its flammability, poses fire and explosion hazards if not handled in appropriate containment. The monomer is stored under controlled conditions and stabilized with inhibitors to prevent premature polymerization during storage and transport. It is typically managed as a gas or low-boiling liquid in industrial facilities, with strict controls on ignition sources and ventilation.

Production

Industrial vinyl chloride is mainly produced by the dehydrochlorination of 1,2-dichloroethane (ethylene dichloride), a process that generates hydrogen chloride as a byproduct. This route is favored for large-scale production due to efficiency and integration with ethylene/chlorine-based routes used to make PVC feedstocks. Other historical or alternative routes exist but are less common in modern industry.

Uses

The primary use of vinyl chloride is as the monomer for polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC polymers form a versatile plastic used in pipes, profile extrusions, cables, flooring, packaging films, and many other products. The properties of PVC can be tailored with additives to suit a wide range of applications.

Health and safety

Vinyl chloride is classified as a human carcinogen by several health agencies and the IARC. Acute exposure can cause dizziness and headaches; long-term exposure is associated with an increased risk of liver angiosarcoma and other health effects. Occupational exposure limits, monitoring, engineering controls, and protective equipment are standard in facilities handling the monomer. Environmental and regulatory safeguards address emissions and spills, given its volatility and potential health risks.